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The John and Betty Pope Caregivers Scholarship
Family caregivers often face hurdles with continuing their education.
The John and Betty Pope Caregivers Scholarship, at Georgia Southwestern State University, was among the first scholarships in the country to support students who are balancing their education with caregiving responsibilities. This scholarship not only eases financial burdens by covering in-state tuition, housing, and books but also encourages students to explore careers in caregiving. By recognizing the skills and strengths developed through caregiving, the scholarship empowers students to integrate their caregiving experiences into their academic and professional journeys.
2025 Application Dates Coming Soon
Eligibility requirements
- The scholarship is open to full-time Georgia Southwestern State University students who are providing care for a loved one or pursuing a career related to caregiving.
- Enrollment in a minimum of 12 credit hours each semester (undergraduate) or 9 credit hours (graduate) for a full award. Students who are unable to maintain full-time status due to caregiving-related duties are encouraged to apply as well and, dependent on annual funding availability, partial awards may be considered.
- At least a 3.0 GPA, with awardees expected to maintain while receiving scholarship funding.
- Three letters of recommendation from an individual familiar with the applicant’s academic, professional, and/or caregiving background. At least one must be focused on their caregiving background. Candidates are discouraged from submitting a letter from a family member, but these can be accepted.
- Provide a resume that is tailored to the student’s personal and/or professional caregiving experience as well as volunteer activities, special projects, and any other relevant information.
“It is because of the Rosalynn Carter Institute For Caregivers that allowed me to complete my Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and be able to provide the best care possible for my community. Caregiving is hard and one of the most selfless acts, but one of the most fulfilling to be a part of. This institution has opened doors to educational opportunities that I could once only dream about, and for that I’ll be forever grateful.”
– Shannon Gibson, Pope Scholar
Get Help Now
Crisis TEXT Line
If you are a caregiver in need of support, you can text TOUGH to 741741 for free, 24/7 crisis counseling.
Manage Your Stress
RCI has partnered with Sharecare to offer a mini course through their mental wellbeing app, Unwinding with Sharecare, which is available to all caregivers.
We can’t do this work without the support of caregiver champions like you.